Pet Gifts

Leading Trends (From page 45) been an uptick in business due to the increase in pet adoptions during the pandemic. She also noted that in their area, there has always been a strong tradition of rescuing and adopting puppies and adult dogs.

But Scott said sales are up, not just due to the increase in pet adoptions. She thinks the increase also springs from how the pandemic has prompted us to turn the focus onto our health.

“I think that whenever humans start to pay really close attention to their own health issues, it’s natural for them to apply those same principles to their animals,” Scott said.

In their 22 years doing business, holistic health has been a cornerstone.

“I made my mind right from day one that I wasn’t going to sell in my store one single thing that dogs could swallow that wasn’t US-made, US-sourced and carefully-sourced, if not organic,” Scott said. “Responsible products that really can make a difference in people’s lives. That’s what we do.”

Healthy, organic and CBD products are currently trending, Scott said. She has also found the interest in United States-made products, where the vast majority of her products are sourced, has been steadily growing within recent years.

Customers are also keenly interested in carefully sourced, privately labelled items. Scott meticulously sources the products under her private label. For instance, she’s choosy about CBD products, which she cautions can be adulterated, or laced with pesticides, and has traveled to various states to select sources firsthand.

Collars and leashes are top sellers for Scott. Every single piece on the collar/leash is manufactured in the USA and Coast Guard break strength tested.

“What matters is–as decorative as they are–is that they keep your pet safe on a leash,” Scott said.

Walking harnesses made in BC and Colorado, where they “understand how to make something that will save a life,” also sell better than the rest of the store’s product, Scott said. ❖

What Are Your Predictions for Future Trends?

At Charlotteville, Va.’s, Animal Connection, Owner Pattie Zeller has seen a growing enthusiasm for including dogs at weddings and events. They have a Gift Registry for brides and grooms of all ages.

“If you think about it, a lot of people are getting married later in life and maybe they have all they need, gift wise,” said Zeller. “So, we offer them a year of dog washes or grooming services or things they might need for their pet in our registry.”

Additionally, they offer products that help dogs be a part of the ceremony, including custom collars in the bride’s colors, pouches for the rings to be held by the dog during the ceremony and a special cake dogs can enjoy at the wedding ceremony.

In the future, Kerry Scott, owner of Good Dog Goods in Oak Bluffs, Mass., predicted the trend in purchasing United Statesmade products growing stronger, as interest in these goods has been growing steadily by the year.

Open air pop-up markets are going to be the latest thing, said Jo-Ann Keith, owner at Stinky’s Kittens & Doggies Too in Somerville, Mass. ❖

SEPTEMBER 28 – 30, 2021

2021 LAS VEGAS SOUVENIR & RESORT GIFT SHOW RETURNS WITH MORE OPPORTUNITY THAN EVER

Kicking off September 28 – 30, 2021, the Las Vegas Souvenir & Resort Gift Show will take place at the Las Vegas Convention Center in the NEW West Hall. The nation’s premier souvenir show is set to offer buyers new products from some of the biggest names in every category.

"We look forward to reconnecting with everyone and are excited to get back to an in-person event. Our team is committed to providing an environment to safely conduct business and are working closely with local officials and the convention center. With the show floor filling up quickly, buyers will have the opportunity to shop the latest products and trends from thousands of booths", said April Holinek, Show Director.

Specialty pavilions and product areas include:

SOUVENIR/RESORT

Top names and emerging leaders showcasing destination, resort and tourist merchandise, souvenirs, sustainable products, T-shirts, beach items, coastal and nautical, lake, mountain and lodge, ski-themed products, logo products, shell items, giftware, jewelry/fashion accessories, toys/games and more.

Emerging Marketplace

A must-visit for buyers to see up-and-coming artists and innovative newcomers in a range of market sectors.

Native American Pavilion

One-of-a-kind designs and authentic American Indian artisan crafts along with a series of events & displays.

Made In America

The newest introductions from leading brands showcasing American-made resources.

Food Focus

This growing section brings together a number of sweets, treats and other gourmet and packaged food offerings - a natural market for profitable add-on and impulse sales!

See a small preview of the products available on the following pages!

It is essential for me and my staff to get a well -rounded feel on what the market is offering when planning our season, and there’s no easier way to get this glimpse than to attend the Las Vegas Souvenir & Resort Gift Show. It’s a must show for anyone in the gift and souvenir industry.

Jose Sepulveda, VP Retail Sales, Evelyn Hill Inc.

SEPTEMBER 28 – 30, 2021